In your later teens, there are a few huge milestones that are almost a rite of passage as you transition into adulthood. One of them is passing your driving test, and another is buying your first car. So, if you are looking at getting your first car – congratulations! – let us take a look at the 6 best first cars for new drivers.
- Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta is the UK’s second most popular car model, equally popular across the male and female populations, and remains a firm favourite as a first car for the younger generations.
A Fiesta is a joy to drive, with Ecoboost engines, responsive steering, and a sleek chassis. For a little bit extra, you can also add on parking sensors and an in-built sat-nav, which can be incredibly useful for nervous new drivers.
With various models starting at just over £16,000 – or even less if you get one second hand or by entering car competitions like Dream Car Giveaways – Fiesta’s are the perfect starting car.
- Peugeot 208
Based on the aesthetically pleasing 205, the Peugeot 208 looks and feels like a premium, luxury car, with a price tag under £18,000 (or around £12,000 used).
The Peugeot 208 has a distinctive interior, boasting an i-Cockpit and small steering wheel, along with 3D features and innovative switches.
Though other models might be more cost effective as a first car, the Peugeot 208 is certainly the one with the most visual wow-factor.
- Renault Clio
A Renault Clio is a great all-rounder for new drivers – it has a large boot, great sound system, high level of safety, lane warning, motion-sensed emergency braking, and much more. With a Clio, you know you are in for a safe and comfortable ride.
Not only will the Renault Clio set you back around less than £16,000, but it also falls into one of the lowest cost groups for car insurance. As insurance can be expensive as a new driver, this might be its biggest selling point.
- Hyundai i10
If you have only recently passed your driving test, you aren’t going to feel comfortable in a car that comes racing out of the blocks. However, the Hyundai i10 goes from 0 – 62mph in a gentle 14.6 seconds, easing you into the driving experience.
The Hyundai i10 is very small in stature, making it almost effortless to park, even for those with little practice. It’s small size doesn’t affect the interior, though – inside it has enough room to store everything you need comfortably.
- Volkswagen Polo
Out of all the cars here, the Volkswagen Polo has an aesthetic that screams ‘I am nailing being an adult!’. Even the standard model comes with alloy wheels, stability control, automatic wipers, and automatic headlights.
For a little extra, you can upgrade to a model that has comprehensive driver assistance. These additional features can make even the newest drivers feel safe during long journeys and parking.
- Vauxhall Corsa
And finally, we have the highly popular Vauxhall Corsa. Though not exclusively a car for new drivers, the Corsa has been a firm favourite of people looking for a reliable first car.
If you are looking to lower your carbon footprint, you can get the Corsa we all know and love in a fully electric model – the Corsa-e – for an additional cost.
